Ruben Amorim’s debut as Man United manager could be set back ‘weeks’ with final contract hurdle to overcome

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Ruben Amorim may not be in the dugout as the Manchester United manager against Chelsea after all.

Sporting Lisbon released a statement on Tuesday afternoon confirming that Manchester United intend to pay Ruben Amorim‘s release clause of €10million (£8.3million).

Everything is falling into place for the 39-year-old to become the new Manchester United manager after Erik ten Hag was sacked on Monday.

United chiefs have jetted out to Portugal to finalise the deal with Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday evening. First, Amorim is set to manage one final game as Sporting face Nacional in their League Cup.

READ MORE: Manchester United ace told he can leave in January with Ruben Amorim appointment imminent

Man United chiefs want Ruben Amorim in charge vs Chelsea

Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken interim charge following Ten Hag’s dismissal, and he will take charge of Wednesday evening’s Carabao Cup match against Leicester City.

There is simply no way that the deal for Amorim will be finalised in time for him to lead the United side against the Foxes.

However, United chiefs are hopeful that Amorim will take charge against Chelsea when they travel to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

Ideally, United want Amorim to travel to England after taking charge of his final Sporting game on Tuesday. He will then have time to introduce himself and get familiar with the squad before his first game on the sidelines.

Ruben Amorim debut could be delayed ‘weeks’ by notice period

United’s plan for Amorim’s debut could be ruined by the notice period attached to his Sporting contract.

According to the Daily Mail, Amorim has a notice period after leaving Sporting that will leave him out of action for “a number of weeks”.

The report adds that United are still locked in talks with Sporting to try and negotiate an early termination so that Amorim can be in charge this weekend as planned.

There were concerns that Amorim was “torn” about joining United mid-season, but United’s leadership were adamant that they wanted him to start as soon as possible.

If they cannot negotiate an early termination, Amorim may have to wait until United face Ipswich Town on November 24th to make his debut.